Welcome to the first Membership Minute of the 2026–2027 membership year!
September 2026
NYS PTA Membership Kickoff

44,000+ Members, and We’re Just Getting Started!

 

Welcome to the first Membership Minute of the 2026–2027 membership year! I’m Maria Sanders, your NYS PTA Membership Coordinator, and I’m thrilled to be starting this journey with you. After many years in PTA, I’ve seen firsthand that membership is about so much more than a number. It’s about the people who show up, the connections we make, and the difference we’re able to make together for children, families, and our communities.

 

This year’s theme has us heading From Base Camp to Summit, because every great adventure starts at base camp. Together, we’ll build welcoming PTAs, grow membership, create meaningful connections, and celebrate the milestones along the way.

 

Think of Membership Minute as your monthly trail guide, packed with quick tips, timely reminders, fresh ideas, and inspiration to help your PTA reach new heights.

Ready? Let’s start climbing!

Membership Awards Are Back!

New Year. New Awards. New Ways to Celebrate!

 

We’ve made some exciting changes to the 2026–27 Membership Awards! Check Membership Minute for the latest awards, qualifications, deadlines, and your chance to earn PTA prizes - and maybe even a little 💰!

 

Want to see the full awards lineup? Visit the Membership Awards page → https://nyspta.org/membership-awards-2026-27/

September: Early Bird Award

Start strong and set the tone for the year! 
Reach 50% of your membership goal by September 30 to earn the Early Bird Award.

  • Qualifications: Reach 50% of your goal; Submit State/National dues for all members who have joined by September 30

  • Prize: 12 random winners - one from each region - will receive PTA swag!

October: Trailblazer Award

Keep the momentum going!
Reach 75% of your membership goal by October 31 to earn the Trailblazer Award. 
  • Qualifications: Reach 75% of your goal; Submit State/National dues for all members who have joined by October 31

  • Prize: 12 random winners - one from each region - will receive PTA swag!

And there’s more…Savvy Membership Award
Who will be the FIRST PTA in New York State to reach 100% of their membership goal?

Reach 100% of your goal and earn Savvy - plus a chance to win $100! 
Three PTAs will be drawn each month, September–November.

Students - Our Future Leaders 


Students Are the Spark of the Trail. Their voices, ideas, and leadership help move PTA forward. Make student membership part of your climb this year!

Show your community how close you are to your membership goal!

 

Use our customizable From Base Camp to Summit membership progress graphic anywhere you promote membership.

Join us for Membership Monday Open Zoom on September 14 or October 5! 

Drop in, ask questions, share ideas, and get the support you need to keep your PTA moving toward the summit.

⚠️ UPDATE YOUR OFFICERS IN GIVEBACKS ⚠️

All officers must be updated in Givebacks every year, even if there are no changes. Keeping your information current ensures the right people receive NYS PTA communications, resources, training opportunities, and important reminders.

The First PTA in NYS to Reach 100 Members!


Forest Lake PTA is off to an incredible start, becoming the first PTA in New York State to reach 100 members this membership year! So, how did they do it? Take a look at their story, get inspired, and steal an idea or two for your own PTA! Meet the Forest Lake PTA

Marketing Tip
PTA can only run if it is powered by members - our members are the driving force in our ability to advocate and provide enrichment to the lives of all children. Membership is open all year long! Start your membership drive today and see if you can reach 100% membership in your school community.

Ask your principal to mention PTA membership during:

  • Welcome letters

  • Curriculum or Open House nights

  • Family newsletters

  • Staff meetings

  • School social media

  • Back-to-school events

Make it easy: Give your principal a ready-to-share membership message and link/QR code.

 

A message from a trusted school leader can make all the difference in helping families connect with PTA.

Engagement Tip

September means back to school and back to PTA! Whether it's an Open House or Know Your School Night, events at the beginning of the year are the perfect chance to recruit and engage new members. Set up a fun table (in line with your theme if you have one) with QR codes and a list or infographic of all activities made possible by your PTA.

 

Use this time to conduct a brief survey about what sorts of fundraisers, programs, or events your unit can host this year. When members feel included, they tend to be more engaged!

Membership Tip

Creative ideas beyond traditional membership drives…

 

Have you seen those surprise squishy dumplings all the kids are going crazy over? Capture that same excitement by creating a Membership Mystery Box, filled with school merchandise, PTA swag, or any other items you think might spark interest among your school community. Build anticipation by adding a new item to the box every week in September and offering a free chance to each person who signs up during the month.

Membie's Challenge
 
Where Will Membie Go Next?

Print your flat Membie and take him along on your PTA adventures!

  • PTA meeting
  • Classroom
  • School event
  • Community event
  • Anywhere your PTA is making a difference!

📸 Share your adventure! Send us your favorite Membie photos for a chance to be featured in next month’s Membership Minute. See where Membie has been at SLC!

 

Follow Membie for membership reminders & tips on social media.

Quick Links
Meet the membership team.
Need membership help? We’re here for you! 

NYS PTA Membership Team invites you to join our statewide units

NYS Pride PTSA and Empire State PTSA!

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